‘The Shot Doctor’ working magic on the Spurs

One of the more noticeable parts of Monday’s scrimmage was Tiago Splitter’s improved free-throw technique as he took some shots during the workout.

Splitter’s development has come because of the work of Spurs assistant coach Chip Engelland, who tinkers with the shooting of select players as part of his normal duties with the team.

Engelland also has taken much interest in the shooting of rookie forward Kawhi Leonard, whose offensive inconsistency was considered his major liability when he was drafted.

“He tinkers with my jump shot. Anybody who will listen he’ll tinker with their shot,” Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said.
“Tiago’s more confident at the line. Tony’s comfortable with his shot. He’s already working with Kawhi to try to get him consistent, which, of course, would be important.”

Leonard said that Engelland’s work should help him dispel some of those concerns.

“Yeah, I heard a lot that I couldn’t shoot,” Leonard said. “I just worked on it. I was shooting the ball well in high school, just made the transition to college and shot it as well. Just the offense was different.

“Now, I’m just trying to get my all-around game right so I can be a great player.”